Speaking to reporters after Spurs’ 0-0 draw with Colchester in a Friday night pre-season friendly, Villas-Boas insisted that Tottenham’s position with Bale had not changed and they would not entertain offers.

“He’s not for sale at any price,” Villas-Boas stressed.

Asked if he had held discussions with the forward about leaving the club, the Portuguese manager said: “No we haven’t had any conversations,” before confirming that Tottenham had not received an offer for the Welshman.

Villas-Boas did, however, insist that rumours surrounding Bale were a part of the transfer window and entirely expected of a player who he feels will be in contention for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

“It’s not irritating, I think it’s part of when the market opens. It’s normal that there is speculation everywhere," he added.

“To be fair the English clubs, compared to the European clubs, are probably the ones who haven’t moved as much as they wanted or should, so at the moment we have the signing of one great international player, which everybody saw in the Confederations Cup so we are happy but our market hasn’t stopped and we will continue to further strengthen the squad.”